EP1054371B1 - Automatic alertsystem for vehicles - Google Patents

Automatic alertsystem for vehicles Download PDF

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Publication number
EP1054371B1
EP1054371B1 EP00106898A EP00106898A EP1054371B1 EP 1054371 B1 EP1054371 B1 EP 1054371B1 EP 00106898 A EP00106898 A EP 00106898A EP 00106898 A EP00106898 A EP 00106898A EP 1054371 B1 EP1054371 B1 EP 1054371B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
emergency call
motor vehicle
relative speed
vehicle
distance
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EP00106898A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP1054371A1 (en
EP1054371B2 (en
Inventor
Hans-Wilhelm Dr. Rühl
Jauke Van Roekel
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Siemens AG
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Siemens AG
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    • G—PHYSICS
    • G08—SIGNALLING
    • G08G—TRAFFIC CONTROL SYSTEMS
    • G08G1/00—Traffic control systems for road vehicles
    • G08G1/20—Monitoring the location of vehicles belonging to a group, e.g. fleet of vehicles, countable or determined number of vehicles
    • G08G1/205—Indicating the location of the monitored vehicles as destination, e.g. accidents, stolen, rental

Definitions

  • the invention relates to an emergency call system of a motor vehicle with a Motor vehicle present transmitter for the automatic transmission of a Emergency calls to an external receiving station and a signal generator, wherein the transmitter and the signal transmitter are connected to a computing unit, the emergency call when there is a corresponding signal from the signal generator activated, as well as a method for the automatic transmission of a Emergency calls by a transmitter from a motor vehicle to a receiving station.
  • Such an emergency call system is known from WO 90/03899.
  • An automatic emergency call is triggered by a signal from a signal generator. at the signal transmitter can be an airbag, an alarm system or act a temperature or gas sensor. The system can therefore be dependent from the signaling device used in the event of a collision or theft the vehicle an alarm via a mobile radio device trigger.
  • the emergency call system also contains a navigation device for determination and transmission of the position of the vehicle together with the emergency call.
  • the emergency call can provide additional information such as vehicle-specific data, vehicle type, dangerous goods class, the phone number, an accident report, a fire warning and the number of Vehicle occupants are transmitted.
  • This system is disadvantageous however, that in the event of a collision, the emergency call device will be damaged can and therefore possibly is inoperable. As a result, the Emergency call can no longer be sent.
  • the object of the invention is therefore to provide an emergency call system that this Avoids disadvantage and ensures a safe transmission of the emergency call.
  • Another object of the invention is a method for the automatic transmission of an emergency call from a motor vehicle to specify a receiving station.
  • the first-mentioned task is in a generic emergency call system solved in that the emergency call means for determining a degree of probability for an impending accident with the signals of the signal generator and the emergency call when a limit value is exceeded can be activated for the degree of probability.
  • the emergency call system contains a signal generator with the computing unit connected measuring means for determining the relative speed and the distance of the motor vehicle to another vehicle or an obstacle, a comparison between the with the measuring means determined relative speed and a maximum permissible value of the relative speed at the measured distance is feasible and the emergency call when the maximum permissible is exceeded Relative speed can be activated at a given distance.
  • the emergency call is therefore already before an accident or a collision of the Motor vehicle can be activated with another vehicle or an obstacle.
  • the inventive method is characterized in that the Distance and the relative speed of the motor vehicle to one other vehicle or an obstacle is determined, the determined relative speed with a specified maximum permissible relative speed for the determined distance is compared and an emergency call is triggered when the determined relative speed of the motor vehicle exceeds the specified maximum permissible relative speed.
  • the emergency call only transmitted when a collision is registered by a sensor becomes.
  • the airbag signal is used for this purpose, for example.
  • the emergency call can therefore also occur before the collision occurs be activated, i.e. at a time when the emergency call system is still is functional.
  • the relative speed of the motor vehicle to another vehicle or an obstacle as well like the distance of the motor vehicle to the other vehicle or obstacle. Exceeds the relative speed at a given distance a predetermined value, it can be assumed that a collision is inevitable.
  • limit values for the maximum allowable Relative speed must be present. These can, for example take the road surface into account. So is with dry Roadway, for example, a higher limit value is permissible than in the wet Road or snow-covered road.
  • Appropriate sensors must be available in the vehicle his. For example, can be optically via the Road surface reflected light portion between dry and wet road be distinguished.
  • a motor vehicle is preferably carried out together with the emergency call Vehicle position transmitted to the receiving station.
  • This is in the driving in particular a navigation system known per se is provided, the position determination both via satellite navigation (GPS navigation) as well as via dead reckoning in a known manner can.
  • GPS navigation satellite navigation
  • dead reckoning in a known manner can be used.
  • the emergency call system only the position determination of importance, not however the route calculation. It is therefore sufficient, for example instead of a full navigation system, just one Use receiver with evaluation unit for GPS navigation.
  • the computing unit of the emergency call system with is at least one sensor for detecting an accident.
  • the emergency call system also contains a timer connected to the computing unit (Timer) that starts when the emergency call is activated. Lies to No time signaling a collision when the timer expired the sensor, the emergency call is automatically canceled.
  • the revocation of the Emergency calls avoided alerting assistants can be, in particular, an acceleration sensor or be a temperature sensor. Because acceleration sensors already available to trigger the airbag in motor vehicles are, it is particularly advantageous if the emergency call system with these connected is. If the airbag does not run until the timer expires triggered, it is assumed that no collision has occurred and the emergency call is canceled. Not to revoke the emergency call Depending on the signal of a single sensor, several can Sensors are present. In the presence of a temperature sensor In particular, a vehicle fire can also be registered.
  • the computing unit the emergency call system is connected to seat occupancy sensors, so that with the number of occupied motor vehicle slots are transmitted to the emergency call can.
  • An essential part of the emergency call system are the measuring means for determining the relative speed and the distance of the motor vehicle from another vehicle or one Obstacle. These measuring means are preferably based on the evaluation a transmitted and received reflected radar signal.
  • Such Radar systems are not yet standard in motor vehicles used, but they are known to the person skilled in the art. In Valais, among others: Electronics in the automotive industry, 2nd edition, expert-Verlag, Renningen-Malsheim 1997, pages 308 to 331, the use of radar systems for distance warning and distance control in motor vehicles. Radar systems have optical or acoustic methods the advantage that the damping by rain and fog is low. As possible frequencies are given 35 GHz and 78 GHz.
  • a computerized radar method is described in WO 94/16340 for measuring distances and relative speeds between one Vehicle and obstacles in front of it described.
  • radar signals are emitted by another vehicle or an obstacle.
  • the reflected radar signals are in turn collected and evaluated.
  • the relative speed between the motor vehicle in which the system is located and another vehicle or obstacle due to the Doppler shift the frequency of the emitted and reflected signal. Since the radar signal is emitted in pulses, the Runtime of the pulse the distance between the motor vehicle and the the vehicle or obstacle reflecting the radar pulse.
  • apparent obstacles can be found in the aforementioned patent application described procedures are used.
  • Any known radio system can be used to transmit the emergency call. To ensure a safe transmission of the emergency call, this should however, be available nationwide. Because of the already very wide Distribution of mobile radio systems in Europe based on the GSM standard are based, these systems as well as systems according to newer UMTS standard particularly preferred there. It can be for example, the known D and E networks. Appropriate Systems are well known to the person skilled in the art and are also suitable for use introduced in the motor vehicle, so that they are not described here Need to become.
  • the emergency call system shown in Figure 1 contains the central element Computing unit 1, which consists of a microcomputer and associated storage elements and interfaces exist.
  • a Radar system 2 connected in the manner described above Relative speed of the motor vehicle and the distance to one other vehicle or obstacle.
  • the computing unit connected to a mobile phone 3.
  • a determination equation filed for calculation a limit of the maximum permissible relative speed given distance.
  • the current distance of the motor vehicle from one The radar system 2 passes the obstacle to the computing unit 1 transmitted.
  • the computing unit 2 the permissible limit for the relative speed is determined.
  • the of the radar system 2 also transmitted current to the computing unit 1 Relative speed is compared to this limit.
  • the arithmetic unit 1 makes an emergency call through the mobile phone 3 transmitted to a receiving station, not shown. To make the emergency call at the same time the position of the motor vehicle at the receiving station To be able to transmit, the computing unit 1 is still with a Navigation system 4 connected.
  • the computing unit 1 is connected to a timer (Timer) 5.
  • timer timer
  • the runtime of the timer is typically just a few seconds.
  • Computing unit 1 is also included connected to the airbag system 6 of the motor vehicle. Finds a collision of the motor vehicle with the obstacle, at least one airbag triggered. The deployment of the airbag is registered in the computing unit 1. If the timer 5 expires, there is no signal in the computing unit 1 that signals that the airbag is deployed, it is assumed that there was no collision. In this case, by the computing unit 1 activates a further radio call via the mobile telephone 3 or the still existing connection used to revoke the To transmit emergency calls.
  • the radar system includes one High-frequency part 7 and a signal processing part 8.
  • a pulsed microwave signal is generated, which via a Transmitting / receiving antenna 9 is transmitted.
  • the microwave signal is reflected on a preceding vehicle 10.
  • the reflected Part is partially caught by the transmitting / receiving antenna 9 and again supplied to the high-frequency part 7.
  • Be in the high frequency part the transmit signal and the received reflected signal are separated and fed separately to a mixer.
  • the signal processing part 8 a Analog / digital conversion performed and then the digital signals processed in a signal processor.
  • the specified distance of the motor vehicle is transferred from preceding vehicle 10 and the relative speed to the computing unit 1 of the emergency call system.
  • FIG 3 is a navigation system for determining the vehicle position shown in more detail.
  • an operating unit 11 with a microprocessor 12 Via an operating unit 11 with a microprocessor 12 is connected, settings of system parameters of the Navigation system can be made. For example, the one you want Form of presentation of the information on the display unit 13 to get voted.
  • the destination can also be entered or from a list of possible destinations that are shown on the display unit 13, to be selected.
  • the control unit 11 and the display unit 13 can also be designed as a combined control / display unit.
  • the input and output of information can also be shown in a manner not shown Way via acoustic means of speech input or output.
  • the navigation system also includes a reader 14 with which a CD-ROM 15 or a similar storage medium digitized map data can be read into the microprocessor 12 can.
  • the microprocessor 12 also includes other components for position determination of the vehicle using dead reckoning and / or GPS navigation connected. It is a GPS receiver 16, which is equipped to receive signals from the GPS satellite system and the position of the vehicle based on the received signals can determine. However, since the GPS signals may in valleys or in Cities are not receivable, the navigation system continues to point a direction sensor 17 and a distance sensor 18 for implementation a dead reckoning. The determined by the navigation system Vehicle position is sent to the computing unit via the interface 19 1 of the emergency call system. The navigation system cannot shown connected to the mobile phone or an audio system be current traffic information from the mobile phone or audio system are transmitted to the navigation system at route planning. In this respect it is a known navigation system. Of the various functions of the Navigation system is only the destination for the emergency call system the vehicle position is important.
  • a radar system, a navigation system and a mobile phone via the computing unit 1 in the invention Linked way. Except in the computing unit 1 are therefore both in the radar system 2 and in the navigation system 4 microprocessors available. In a more integrated embodiment of the Emergency call system according to the invention can the function of this individual Microprocessors, however, also in a common microprocessor be relocated.
  • FIG. 4 shows an embodiment of the method according to the invention as a flow chart.
  • the distance d and the relative speed V rel of the motor vehicle to a preceding vehicle or an obstacle are continuously determined.
  • the current vehicle position is also continuously determined via the navigation system.
  • the current relative speed of the motor vehicle is compared with the limit value V limit of the relative speed that applies to the current distance of the motor vehicle. If the current relative velocity V rel is greater than the cross-limit speed V at a given distance, so it is assumed that a collision is unavoidable and an emergency call is transmitted.
  • a timer is started at the same time. When the timer expires, it is checked whether a sensor that detects a collision of the motor vehicle, for example the airbag sensor, has been activated. If this is not the case, it is assumed that no collision has taken place and the emergency call is canceled.
  • the runtime of the timer is again only a few Seconds. If the emergency call is canceled by the end of the timer the alarm procedure is terminated without an alarm has already occurred. Was the emergency call by If the timer expires, the alarm will eventually be canceled triggered. Through this procedure, the staff in the receiving station not constantly on alert due to received emergency calls which are subsequently revoked. On the other hand, through the delay of the alarm lasting only a few seconds is not a disadvantage Expected effect.
  • the emergency call system according to the invention was based on an embodiment described. Since the emergency call system also includes known motor vehicle components, such as a speed and distance measuring system, includes a navigation system and a mobile phone, a variety of embodiments are possible. For example Speed and distance measurement also used an infrared system become. Furthermore, a complete mobile phone is not required. For the emergency call system according to the invention is a transmitter sufficient so that the dial pad, the microphone and the speaker of the mobile phone for the emergency call system according to the invention is not required. For determination the vehicle position is next to the described navigation system For example, a system is also conceivable in which the position is determined by Baaken is transmitted to the vehicle in the vehicle edge.

Description

Die Erfindung betrifft ein Notrufsystem eines Kraftfahrzeugs mit einem im Kraftfahrzeug vorhanden Sender zur automatischen Übermittlung eines Notrufs an eine externe Empfangsstation und einem Signalgeber, wobei der Sender und der Signalgeber mit einer Recheneinheit verbunden sind, die den Notruf bei Vorliegen eines entsprechenden Signals des Signalgebers aktiviert, sowie ein Verfahren zur automatischen Übermittlung eines Notrufs durch einen Sender von einem Kraftfahrzeug zu einer Empfangsstation.The invention relates to an emergency call system of a motor vehicle with a Motor vehicle present transmitter for the automatic transmission of a Emergency calls to an external receiving station and a signal generator, wherein the transmitter and the signal transmitter are connected to a computing unit, the emergency call when there is a corresponding signal from the signal generator activated, as well as a method for the automatic transmission of a Emergency calls by a transmitter from a motor vehicle to a receiving station.

Ein solches Notrufsystem ist aus der WO 90/03899 bekannt. Durch ein Signal eines Signalgebers wird ein automatischer Notruf ausgelöst. Bei dem Signalgeber kann es sich um einen Airbag, eine Alarmanlage oder einen Temperatur- bzw. Gassensor handeln. Das System kann daher abhängig vom eingesetzten Signalgeber bei einer Kollision oder einer Entwendung des Fahrzeuges einen Alarm über eine Mobilfunkeinrichtung auslösen. Ferner enthält das Notrufsystem ein Navigationsgerät zur Bestimmung und Übermittlung der Position des Fahrzeuges zusammen mit dem Notruf. Mit dem Notruf können weitere Informationen, wie beispielsweise fahrzeugspezifische Daten, Fahrzeugtyp, Gefahrgutklasse, die Rufnummer, eine Unfallmeldung, eine Feuerwarnmeldung und die Anzahl der Fahrzeuginsassen, übermittelt werden. Nachteilig ist bei diesem System jedoch, daß im Falle einer Kollision die Notrufeinrichtung beschädigt werden kann und daher u.U. funktionsunfähig ist. Dies hat zur Folge, daß der Notruf nicht mehr ausgesendet werden kann.Such an emergency call system is known from WO 90/03899. Through a An automatic emergency call is triggered by a signal from a signal generator. at the signal transmitter can be an airbag, an alarm system or act a temperature or gas sensor. The system can therefore be dependent from the signaling device used in the event of a collision or theft the vehicle an alarm via a mobile radio device trigger. The emergency call system also contains a navigation device for determination and transmission of the position of the vehicle together with the emergency call. The emergency call can provide additional information such as vehicle-specific data, vehicle type, dangerous goods class, the phone number, an accident report, a fire warning and the number of Vehicle occupants are transmitted. This system is disadvantageous however, that in the event of a collision, the emergency call device will be damaged can and therefore possibly is inoperable. As a result, the Emergency call can no longer be sent.

Aufgabe der Erfindung ist es daher, ein Notrufsystem anzugeben, das diesen Nachteil vermeidet und eine sichere Aussendung des Notrufs gewährleistet. Eine weitere Aufgabe der Erfindung besteht darin, ein Verfahren zur automatischen Übermittlung eines Notrufs von einem Kraftfahrzeug zu einer Empfangsstation anzugeben.The object of the invention is therefore to provide an emergency call system that this Avoids disadvantage and ensures a safe transmission of the emergency call. Another object of the invention is a method for the automatic transmission of an emergency call from a motor vehicle to specify a receiving station.

Die erstgenannte Aufgabe wird bei einem gattungsgemäßen Notrufsystem dadurch gelöst, daß das Notrufsystem Mittel zur Bestimmung eines Wahrscheinlichkeitsgrades für einen bevorstehenden Unfall mit den Signalen des Signalgebers enthält und der Notruf bei Überschreiten eines Grenzwertes für den Wahrscheinlichkeitsgrad aktivierbar ist.The first-mentioned task is in a generic emergency call system solved in that the emergency call means for determining a degree of probability for an impending accident with the signals of the signal generator and the emergency call when a limit value is exceeded can be activated for the degree of probability.

Insbesondere enthält das Notrufsystem als Signalgeber mit der Recheneinheit verbundene Meßmittel zur Bestimmung der Relativgeschwindigkeit und des Abstandes des Kraftfahrzeuges zu einem anderen Fahrzeug oder einem Hindernis, wobei in der Recheneinheit ein Vergleich zwischen der mit den Meßmitteln bestimmten Relativgeschwindigkeit und einem maximal zulässigen Wert der Relativgeschwindigkeit bei dem gemessenen Abstand durchführbar ist und der Notruf bei Überschreiten der maximal zulässigen Relativgeschwindigkeit bei gegebenem Abstand aktivierbar ist. Der Notruf ist somit bereits vor einem Unfall bzw. einer Kollision des Kraftfahrzeuges mit einem anderen Fahrzeug oder einem Hindernis aktivierbar.In particular, the emergency call system contains a signal generator with the computing unit connected measuring means for determining the relative speed and the distance of the motor vehicle to another vehicle or an obstacle, a comparison between the with the measuring means determined relative speed and a maximum permissible value of the relative speed at the measured distance is feasible and the emergency call when the maximum permissible is exceeded Relative speed can be activated at a given distance. The emergency call is therefore already before an accident or a collision of the Motor vehicle can be activated with another vehicle or an obstacle.

Das erfindungsgemäße Verfahren ist dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß der Abstand und die Relativgeschwindigkeit des Kraftfahrzeuges zu einem anderen Fahrzeug oder einem Hindernis ermittelt wird, die ermittelte Relativgeschwindigkeit mit einer festgelegten maximal zulässigen Relativgeschwindigkeit für den ermittelten Abstand verglichen wird und ein Notruf ausgelöst wird, wenn die bestimmte Relativgeschwindigkeit des Kraftfahrzeugs die festgelegte maximal zulässige Relativgeschwindigkeit überschreitet.The inventive method is characterized in that the Distance and the relative speed of the motor vehicle to one other vehicle or an obstacle is determined, the determined relative speed with a specified maximum permissible relative speed for the determined distance is compared and an emergency call is triggered when the determined relative speed of the motor vehicle exceeds the specified maximum permissible relative speed.

Bei dem eingangs beschriebenen bekannten Notrufsystem wird der Notruf erst dann ausgesendet, wenn von einem Sensor eine Kollision registriert wird. Dazu wird beispielsweise das Airbagsignal verwendet. Im Gegensatz dazu kann mit dem erfindungsgemäßen Notrufsystem bereits vor Eintreten der Kollision festgestellt werden, daß diese nicht mehr zu verhindern ist. Als Folge kann der Notruf daher auch bereits vor Eintreten der Kollision aktiviert werden, d.h. zu einem Zeitpunkt, zu dem das Notrufsystem noch funktionsfähig ist. Hierzu wird die Relativgeschwindigkeit des Kraftfahrzeuges zu einem anderen Fahrzeug oder einem Hindernis ebenso bestimmt wie der Abstand des Kraftfahrzeuges zu dem anderen Fahrzeug oder Hindernis. Übersteigt die Relativgeschwindigkeit bei gegebenem Abstand einen vorgegebenen Wert, so kann davon ausgegangen werden, daß eine Kollision unvermeidbar ist.In the known emergency call system described above, the emergency call only transmitted when a collision is registered by a sensor becomes. The airbag signal is used for this purpose, for example. In contrast this can be done with the emergency call system according to the invention before it occurs the collision can be determined that this can no longer be prevented. As a result, the emergency call can therefore also occur before the collision occurs be activated, i.e. at a time when the emergency call system is still is functional. For this, the relative speed of the motor vehicle to another vehicle or an obstacle as well like the distance of the motor vehicle to the other vehicle or obstacle. Exceeds the relative speed at a given distance a predetermined value, it can be assumed that a collision is inevitable.

Zu jedem Abstand des Kraftfahrzeuges zu einem anderen Fahrzeug oder einem Hindernis ist daher ein maximal zulässiger Grenzwert für die Relativgeschwindigkeit festgelegt. Dieser Grenzwert kann in der Recheneinheit über eine Bestimmungsgleichung für den jeweiligen Abstand bestimmt werden. Es ist jedoch auch möglich, mehrere Wertepaare jeweils eines Abstandes und einer zugehörigen maximal zulässigen Relativgeschwindigkeit in einem Speicherelement abzuspeichern, wobei das Speicherelement mit der Recheneinheit in Verbindung steht. Die Recheneinheit ruft dann die dem aktuellen Abstand nächstgelegenen Wertepaare ab und bestimmt daraus beispielsweise mittels Interpolation die maximal zulässige Relativgeschwindigkeit des Fahrzeuges.At any distance from the motor vehicle to another vehicle or An obstacle is therefore a maximum permissible limit for the relative speed established. This limit can be set in the computing unit determined via an equation for the respective distance become. However, it is also possible to have several pairs of values, one each Distance and an associated maximum permissible relative speed store in a storage element, the storage element is connected to the computing unit. The computing unit calls then the pairs of values closest to the current distance from and uses interpolation to determine the maximum permissible value Relative speed of the vehicle.

Weiterhin können verschiedene solcher Grenzwerte für die maximal zulässige Relativgeschwindigkeit vorhanden sein. Diese können beispielsweise die Fahrbahnbeschaffenheit berücksichtigen. So ist bei trockener Fahrbahn beispielsweise ein höherer Grenzwert zulässig als bei nasser Fahrbahn oder schneebedeckter Fahrbahn. Zur Bestimmung der Fahrbahnbeschaffenheit müssen im Fahrzeug entsprechende Sensoren vorhanden sein. Beispielsweise kann auf optischem Wege über den von der Fahrbahn reflektierten Lichtanteil zwischen trockener und nasser Fahrbahn unterschieden werden.Furthermore, various such limit values for the maximum allowable Relative speed must be present. These can, for example take the road surface into account. So is with dry Roadway, for example, a higher limit value is permissible than in the wet Road or snow-covered road. To determine the condition of the road Appropriate sensors must be available in the vehicle his. For example, can be optically via the Road surface reflected light portion between dry and wet road be distinguished.

Obwohl es prinzipiell auch möglich ist, das einen Notruf aussendende Kraftfahrzeug zu orten, wird vorzugsweise zusammen mit dem Notruf die Fahrzeugposition an die Empfangsstation übermittelt. Hierzu ist im Fahr zeug insbesondere ein an sich bekanntes Navigationssystem vorgesehen, wobei die Positionsbestimmung sowohl über Satelliten-Navigation (GPS-Navigation) als auch über Koppelnavigation in bekannter Weise erfolgen kann. Von den verschiedenen Funktionen eines Navigationssystems ist für das Notrufsystem lediglich die Positionsbestimmung von Bedeutung, nicht jedoch die Routenberechnung. Daher ist es beispielsweise auch ausreichend anstatt eines vollwertigen Navigationssystems lediglich einen Empfänger mit Auswerteeinheit für GPS-Navigation einzusetzen.Although in principle it is also possible to send an emergency call Locating a motor vehicle is preferably carried out together with the emergency call Vehicle position transmitted to the receiving station. This is in the driving in particular a navigation system known per se is provided, the position determination both via satellite navigation (GPS navigation) as well as via dead reckoning in a known manner can. Of the various functions of a navigation system is for the emergency call system only the position determination of importance, not however the route calculation. It is therefore sufficient, for example instead of a full navigation system, just one Use receiver with evaluation unit for GPS navigation.

Um Fehlalarmierungen zu verhindern, ist in einer besonderen Ausführungsform vorgesehen, daß die Recheneinheit des Notrufsystems mit mindestens einem Sensor zur Detektion eines Unfalls ist. Das Notrufsystem enthält weiterhin einen mit der Recheneinheit verbundenen Zeitgeber (Timer), der mit der Aktivierung des Notrufs gestartet wird. Liegt zum Zeitpunkt des Ablaufs des Timers kein eine Kollision signalisierendes Signal des Sensors vor, so wird der Notruf automatisch widerrufen.To prevent false alarms, is in a special embodiment provided that the computing unit of the emergency call system with is at least one sensor for detecting an accident. The emergency call system also contains a timer connected to the computing unit (Timer) that starts when the emergency call is activated. Lies to No time signaling a collision when the timer expired the sensor, the emergency call is automatically canceled.

Gelingt es einem Fahrer beispielsweise, trotz einer oberhalb des Grenzwertes liegenden Relativgeschwindigkeit ein Hindernis noch zu umfahren und damit eine Kollision zu vermeiden, so wird durch den Widerruf des Notrufs eine Alarmierung von Hilfskräften vermieden. Bei dem Sensor zur Detektion eines Unfalls kann es sich insbesondere um einen Beschleunigungssensor oder um einen Temperatursensor handeln. Da Beschleunigungssensoren bereits zur Auslösung des Airbags in Kraftfahrzeugen vorhanden sind, ist es besonders vorteilhaft, wenn das Notrufsystem mit diesen verbunden ist. Wird somit bis zum Ablauf des Timers der Airbag nicht ausgelöst, so wird davon ausgegangen, daß keine Kollision stattgefunden hat und der Notruf wird widerrufen. Um den Widerruf des Notrufs nicht vom Signal eines einzelnen Sensors abhängig zu machen, können mehrere Sensoren vorhanden sein. Bei Vorhandensein eines Temperatursensors kann insbesondere auch ein Fahrzeugbrand registriert werden.If a driver succeeds, for example, despite being above the limit to drive around an obstacle and thus to avoid a collision, the revocation of the Emergency calls avoided alerting assistants. With the sensor Accident detection can be, in particular, an acceleration sensor or be a temperature sensor. Because acceleration sensors already available to trigger the airbag in motor vehicles are, it is particularly advantageous if the emergency call system with these connected is. If the airbag does not run until the timer expires triggered, it is assumed that no collision has occurred and the emergency call is canceled. Not to revoke the emergency call Depending on the signal of a single sensor, several can Sensors are present. In the presence of a temperature sensor In particular, a vehicle fire can also be registered.

Um eine ausreichende Zahl von Rettungskräften zu aktivieren, ist in einer bevorzugten Ausführungsform ferner vorgesehen, daß die Recheneinheit des Notrufsystems mit Sitzbelegungssensoren verbunden ist, so daß mit dem Notruf die Anzahl der besetzten Kraftfahrzeugplätze übermittelt werden kann.To activate a sufficient number of rescue workers, is in one preferred embodiment further provided that the computing unit the emergency call system is connected to seat occupancy sensors, so that with the number of occupied motor vehicle slots are transmitted to the emergency call can.

Ein wesentlicher Bestandteil des erfindungsgemäßen Notrufsystems sind die Meßmittel zur Bestimmung der Relativgeschwindigkeit und des Abstandes des Kraftfahrzeuges von einem anderen Fahrzeug oder einem Hindernis. Vorzugsweise beruhen diese Meßmittel auf der Auswertung eines ausgesendeten und empfangenen reflektierten Radarsignals. Solche Radarsysteme werden zwar noch nicht serienmäßig in Kraftfahrzeugen eingesetzt, sie sind dem Fachmann jedoch bekannt. In Walliser u.a.: Elektronik im Kraftfahrzeugwesen, 2. Auflage, expert-Verlag, Renningen-Malsheim 1997, Seiten 308 bis 331 wird der Einsatz von Radaranlagen zur Abstandswarnung und Abstandsregelung in Kraftfahrzeugen beschrieben. Radaranlagen haben gegenüber optischen oder akustischen Methoden den Vorteil, daß die Dämpfung durch Regen und Nebel gering ist. Als mögliche Frequenzen werden 35 GHz und 78 GHz angegeben. An essential part of the emergency call system according to the invention are the measuring means for determining the relative speed and the distance of the motor vehicle from another vehicle or one Obstacle. These measuring means are preferably based on the evaluation a transmitted and received reflected radar signal. Such Radar systems are not yet standard in motor vehicles used, but they are known to the person skilled in the art. In Valais, among others: Electronics in the automotive industry, 2nd edition, expert-Verlag, Renningen-Malsheim 1997, pages 308 to 331, the use of radar systems for distance warning and distance control in motor vehicles. Radar systems have optical or acoustic methods the advantage that the damping by rain and fog is low. As possible frequencies are given 35 GHz and 78 GHz.

Weiterhin wird in der WO 94/16340 ein computerisiertes Radarverfahren zur Messung von Abständen und Relativgeschwindigkeiten zwischen einem Fahrzeug und vor ihm befindlichen Hindernissen beschrieben. Hierbei werden Radarsignale ausgesendet, die von einem anderen Fahrzeug oder einem Hindernis reflektiert werden. Die reflektierten Radarsignale werden wiederum aufgefangen und ausgewertet. Die Relativgeschwindigkeit zwischen dem Kraftfahrzeug, in dem sich die Anlage befindet, und einem anderen Fahrzeug oder Hindernis wird aufgrund der Dopplerverschiebung der Frequenz des ausgesendeten und reflektierten Signals bestimmt. Da das Radarsignal pulsweise ausgesendet wird, kann aus der Laufzeit des Pulses die Entfernung zwischen dem Kraftfahrzeug und dem den Radarpuls reflektierenden Fahrzeug oder Hindernis ermittelt werden. Zur sicheren Unterscheidung zwischen tatsächlichen Hindernissen und Scheinhindernissen kann beispielsweise das in der zuvor genannten Patentanmeldung beschriebene Verfahren zur Anwendung kommen.Furthermore, a computerized radar method is described in WO 94/16340 for measuring distances and relative speeds between one Vehicle and obstacles in front of it described. in this connection radar signals are emitted by another vehicle or an obstacle. The reflected radar signals are in turn collected and evaluated. The relative speed between the motor vehicle in which the system is located and another vehicle or obstacle due to the Doppler shift the frequency of the emitted and reflected signal. Since the radar signal is emitted in pulses, the Runtime of the pulse the distance between the motor vehicle and the the vehicle or obstacle reflecting the radar pulse. For a safe distinction between actual obstacles and For example, apparent obstacles can be found in the aforementioned patent application described procedures are used.

Zur Übermittlung des Notrufs ist jedes bekannte Funksystem verwendbar. Um eine sichere Übermittlung des Notrufes zu gewährleisten, sollte dieses jedoch flächendeckend vorhanden sein. Aufgrund der bereits sehr weiten Verbreitung von Mobilfunksystemen in Europa, die auf dem GSM-Standard beruhen, werden diese Systeme ebenso wie Systeme nach dem neueren UMTS-Standard dort besonders bevorzugt. Hierbei kann es sich beispielsweise um die bekannten D- und E-Netze handeln. Entsprechende Systeme sind dem Fachmann hinreichend bekannt und auch zur Verwendung im Kraftfahrzeug eingeführt, so daß sie hier nicht näher beschrieben werden müssen.Any known radio system can be used to transmit the emergency call. To ensure a safe transmission of the emergency call, this should however, be available nationwide. Because of the already very wide Distribution of mobile radio systems in Europe based on the GSM standard are based, these systems as well as systems according to newer UMTS standard particularly preferred there. It can be for example, the known D and E networks. Appropriate Systems are well known to the person skilled in the art and are also suitable for use introduced in the motor vehicle, so that they are not described here Need to become.

Die Erfindung wird nachfolgend anhand eines Ausführungsbeispiels und der Zeichnung näher erläutert. Es zeigen

Figur 1:
die wesentlichen Komponenten des Notrufsystems,
Figur 2:
die Komponenten eines Radarsystems,
Figur 3:
die Komponenten eines Navigationssystems,
Figur 4:
den Ablauf des Verfahrens,
Figur 5:
den Ablauf des Verfahrens zur Vermeidung von Fehlalarmierungen in der Empfangsstation.
The invention is explained in more detail below using an exemplary embodiment and the drawing. Show it
Figure 1:
the essential components of the emergency call system,
Figure 2:
the components of a radar system,
Figure 3:
the components of a navigation system,
Figure 4:
the course of the procedure,
Figure 5:
the sequence of the procedure for avoiding false alarms in the receiving station.

Das in Figur 1 dargestellte Notrufsystem enthält als zentrales Element die Recheneinheit 1, die aus einem Mikrocomputer und zugeordneten Speicherelementen und Schnittstellen besteht. Mit der Recheneinheit 1 ist ein Radarsystem 2 verbunden, das in der zuvor beschriebenen Weise die Relativgeschwindigkeit des Kraftfahrzeuges und den Abstand zu einem anderen Fahrzeug oder Hindernis ermittelt. Ferner ist die Recheneinheit mit einem Mobiltelefon 3 verbunden. In einem Speicherelement der Recheneinheit 1 ist eine Bestimmungsgleichung abgelegt zur Berechnung eines Grenzwertes der maximal zulässigen Relativgeschwindigkeit bei gegebenem Abstand. Der aktuelle Abstand des Kraftfahrzeuges von einem Hindernis wird von dem Radarsystem 2 an die Recheneinheit 1 übermittelt. Aufgrund dieses Abstandswertes wird in der Recheneinheit 2 der zulässige Grenzwert für die Relativgeschwindigkeit bestimmt. Die von dem Radarsystem 2 ebenfalls an die Recheneinheit 1 übermittelte aktuelle Relativgeschwindigkeit wird mit diesem Grenzwert verglichen. Ist die aktuelle Relativgeschwindigkeit des Kraftfahrzeuges größer als der Grenzwert, so wird davon ausgegangen, daß eine Kollision unvermeidbar ist. In diesem Fall wird durch die Recheneinheit 1 ein Notruf durch das Mobiltelefon 3 an eine nicht dargestellte Empfangsstation übermittelt. Um mit dem Notruf gleichzeitig auch die Position des Kraftfahrzeuges an die Empfangsstation übermitteln zu können, ist die Recheneinheit 1 weiterhin mit einem Navigationssystem 4 verbunden. The emergency call system shown in Figure 1 contains the central element Computing unit 1, which consists of a microcomputer and associated storage elements and interfaces exist. With the computing unit 1 is a Radar system 2 connected in the manner described above Relative speed of the motor vehicle and the distance to one other vehicle or obstacle. Furthermore, the computing unit connected to a mobile phone 3. In a memory element of the computing unit 1 is a determination equation filed for calculation a limit of the maximum permissible relative speed given distance. The current distance of the motor vehicle from one The radar system 2 passes the obstacle to the computing unit 1 transmitted. On the basis of this distance value, the computing unit 2 the permissible limit for the relative speed is determined. The of the radar system 2 also transmitted current to the computing unit 1 Relative speed is compared to this limit. Is the current one Relative speed of the motor vehicle greater than the limit value, it is assumed that a collision is unavoidable. In this The arithmetic unit 1 makes an emergency call through the mobile phone 3 transmitted to a receiving station, not shown. To make the emergency call at the same time the position of the motor vehicle at the receiving station To be able to transmit, the computing unit 1 is still with a Navigation system 4 connected.

Zusätzlich steht die Recheneinheit 1 in Verbindung mit einem Zeitgeber (Timer) 5. Mit Aktivierung des Notrufes durch die Recheneinheit 1 wird gleichzeitig der Timer 5 gestartet. Die Laufzeit des Timers beträgt typischerweise nur wenige Sekunden. Weiterhin ist die Recheneinheit 1 mit dem Airbagsystem 6 des Kraftfahrzeuges verbunden. Findet eine Kollision des Kraftfahrzeuges mit dem Hindernis statt, so wird mindestens ein Airbag ausgelöst. Das Auslösen des Airbags wird in der Recheneinheit 1 registriert. Liegt bei Ablauf des Timers 5 in der Recheneinheit 1 kein Signal vor, das eine Auslösung des Airbags signalisiert, so wird davon ausgegangen, daß keine Kollision stattgefunden hat. In diesem Falle wird durch die Recheneinheit 1 ein weiterer Funkruf über das Mobiltelefon 3 aktiviert bzw. die noch bestehende Verbindung benutzt, um einen Widerruf des Notrufes zu übermitteln.In addition, the computing unit 1 is connected to a timer (Timer) 5. When the emergency call is activated by the computing unit 1 at the same time timer 5 started. The runtime of the timer is typically just a few seconds. Computing unit 1 is also included connected to the airbag system 6 of the motor vehicle. Finds a collision of the motor vehicle with the obstacle, at least one airbag triggered. The deployment of the airbag is registered in the computing unit 1. If the timer 5 expires, there is no signal in the computing unit 1 that signals that the airbag is deployed, it is assumed that there was no collision. In this case, by the computing unit 1 activates a further radio call via the mobile telephone 3 or the still existing connection used to revoke the To transmit emergency calls.

In Figur 2 sind die an sich bekannten Komponenten eines Radarsystems zur Bestimmung der Relativgeschwindigkeit und des Abstandes in vereinfachter Blockform dargestellt. Das Radarsystem beinhaltet einen Hochfrequenzteil 7 und einen Signalverarbeitungsteil 8. Im Hochfrequenzteil 7 wird ein gepulstes Mikrowellensignal erzeugt, das über eine Sende-/Empfangsantenne 9 ausgesendet wird. Das Mikrowellensignal wird an einem vorausfahrenden Fahrzeug 10 reflektiert. Der reflektierte Anteil wird von der Sende-/Empfangsantenne 9 teilweise aufgefangen und wiederum dem Hochfrequenzteil 7 zugeführt. Im Hochfrequenzteil werden das Sendesignal und das empfangende reflektierte Signal getrennt und getrennt einem Mischer zugeführt. Im Signalverarbeitungsteil 8 wird eine Analog/Digitalwandlung durchgeführt und die dann digitalen Signale werden in einem Signalprozessor weiterverarbeitet. An einer Schnittstelle 19a erfolgt die Übergabe des bestimmten Abstandes des Kraftfahrzeuges vom vorausfahrenden Fahrzeug 10 und der Relativgeschwindigkeit an die Recheneinheit 1 des Notrufsystems. In Figure 2 are the known components of a radar system to determine the relative speed and the distance in simplified Block form shown. The radar system includes one High-frequency part 7 and a signal processing part 8. In the high-frequency part 7, a pulsed microwave signal is generated, which via a Transmitting / receiving antenna 9 is transmitted. The microwave signal is reflected on a preceding vehicle 10. The reflected Part is partially caught by the transmitting / receiving antenna 9 and again supplied to the high-frequency part 7. Be in the high frequency part the transmit signal and the received reflected signal are separated and fed separately to a mixer. In the signal processing part 8 a Analog / digital conversion performed and then the digital signals processed in a signal processor. At an interface 19a the specified distance of the motor vehicle is transferred from preceding vehicle 10 and the relative speed to the computing unit 1 of the emergency call system.

In Figur 3 ist ein Navigationssystem zur Bestimmung der Fahrzeugposition näher dargestellt. Über eine Bedieneinheit 11, die mit einem Mikroprozessor 12 verbunden ist, können Einstellungen von Systemparametem des Navigationssystems vorgenommen werden. Beispielsweise kann die gewünschte Darstellungsform der Informationen auf der Anzeigeeinheit 13 gewählt werden. Ferner kann der Zielort eingegeben oder aus einer Liste von möglichen Zielorten, die auf der Anzeigeeinheit 13 dargestellt sind, ausgewählt werden. Die Bedieneinheit 11 und die Anzeigeeinheit 13 können auch als eine kombinierte Bedien-/Anzeigeeinheit ausgeführt sein. Ferner kann die Ein- und Ausgabe von Informationen auch in nicht dargestellter Weise über akustische Mittel der Sprachein- bzw. -ausgabe erfolgen. Das Navigationssystem enthält ferner ein Lesegerät 14, mit dem auf einer CD-ROM 15 oder einem ähnlichen Speichermedium abgespeicherte digitalisierte Landkartendaten in den Mikroprozessor 12 eingelesen werden können.In Figure 3 is a navigation system for determining the vehicle position shown in more detail. Via an operating unit 11 with a microprocessor 12 is connected, settings of system parameters of the Navigation system can be made. For example, the one you want Form of presentation of the information on the display unit 13 to get voted. The destination can also be entered or from a list of possible destinations that are shown on the display unit 13, to be selected. The control unit 11 and the display unit 13 can also be designed as a combined control / display unit. Furthermore, the input and output of information can also be shown in a manner not shown Way via acoustic means of speech input or output. The navigation system also includes a reader 14 with which a CD-ROM 15 or a similar storage medium digitized map data can be read into the microprocessor 12 can.

Ferner sind mit dem Mikroprozessor 12 weitere Komponenten zur Positionsbestimmung des Fahrzeuges mittels Koppelnavigation und/oder GPS-Navigation verbunden. Es handelt sich dabei um einen GPS-Empfänger 16, der zum Empfang von Signalen des GPS-Satellitensystems ausgerüstet ist und aufgrund der empfangenen Signale die Position des Fahrzeuges bestimmen kann. Da die GPS-Signale jedoch u.U. in Tälern oder in Städten nicht empfangbar sind, weist das Navigationssystem weiterhin einen Richtungssensor 17 und einen Wegstreckensensor 18 zur Durchführung einer Koppelnavigation auf. Die durch das Navigationssystem ermittelte Fahrzeugposition wird über die Schnittstelle 19 an die Recheneinheit 1 des Notrufsystems übermittelt. Das Navigationssystem kann in nicht dargestellter Weise mit dem Mobiltelefon oder einem Audiosystem verbunden sein, wobei vom Mobiltelefon bzw. Audiosystem aktuelle Verkehrsinformationen an das Navigationssystem übermittelt werden, die bei der Routenplanung berücksichtigt werden. Insofern handelt es sich um ein bekanntes Navigationssystem. Von den verschiedenen Funktionen des Navigationssystems ist für das Notrufsystem ausschließlich die Bestimmung der Fahrzeugposition von Bedeutung.The microprocessor 12 also includes other components for position determination of the vehicle using dead reckoning and / or GPS navigation connected. It is a GPS receiver 16, which is equipped to receive signals from the GPS satellite system and the position of the vehicle based on the received signals can determine. However, since the GPS signals may in valleys or in Cities are not receivable, the navigation system continues to point a direction sensor 17 and a distance sensor 18 for implementation a dead reckoning. The determined by the navigation system Vehicle position is sent to the computing unit via the interface 19 1 of the emergency call system. The navigation system cannot shown connected to the mobile phone or an audio system be current traffic information from the mobile phone or audio system are transmitted to the navigation system at route planning. In this respect it is a known navigation system. Of the various functions of the Navigation system is only the destination for the emergency call system the vehicle position is important.

In der beschriebenen Ausführungsform werden ein Radarsystem, ein Navigationssystem und ein Mobiltelefon über die Recheneinheit 1 in der erfindungsgemäßen Weise verknüpft. Außer in der Recheneinheit 1 sind daher sowohl im Radarsystem 2 als auch im Navigationssystem 4 Mikroprozessoren vorhanden. In einer höher integrierten Ausführungsform des erfindungsgemäßen Notrufsystems kann die Funktion dieser einzelnen Mikroprozessoren jedoch auch in einen gemeinsamen Mikroprozessor verlagert werden.In the described embodiment, a radar system, a navigation system and a mobile phone via the computing unit 1 in the invention Linked way. Except in the computing unit 1 are therefore both in the radar system 2 and in the navigation system 4 microprocessors available. In a more integrated embodiment of the Emergency call system according to the invention can the function of this individual Microprocessors, however, also in a common microprocessor be relocated.

In Figur 4 ist eine Ausführungsform des erfindungsgemäßen Verfahrens als Flußdiagramm dargestellt. Im Kraftfahrzeug werden fortlaufend der Abstand d und die Relativgeschwindigkeit Vrel des Kraftfahrzeuges zu einem vorausfahrenden Fahrzeug oder einem Hindernis bestimmt. Femer wird über das Navigationssystem ständig die aktuelle Fahrzeugposition bestimmt. Die aktuelle Relativgeschwindigkeit des Kraftfahrzeuges wird mit dem für den aktuellen Abstand des Kraftfahrzeuges geltenden Grenzwert Vgrenz der Relativgeschwindigkeit verglichen. Ist die aktuelle Relativgeschwindigkeit Vrel bei gegebenem Abstand größer als die Grenzgeschwindigkeit Vgrenz, so wird davon ausgegangen, daß eine Kollision unvermeidbar ist und ein Notruf wird ausgesendet. Gleichzeitig wird ein Timer gestartet. Bei Ablauf des Timers wird geprüft, ob ein Sensor, der eine Kollision des Kraftfahrzeuges detektiert, beispielsweise der Airbagsensor, aktiviert wurde. Ist dies nicht der Fall, so wird davon ausgegangen, daß keine Kollision stattgefunden hat und der Notruf wird widerrufen.FIG. 4 shows an embodiment of the method according to the invention as a flow chart. In the motor vehicle, the distance d and the relative speed V rel of the motor vehicle to a preceding vehicle or an obstacle are continuously determined. The current vehicle position is also continuously determined via the navigation system. The current relative speed of the motor vehicle is compared with the limit value V limit of the relative speed that applies to the current distance of the motor vehicle. If the current relative velocity V rel is greater than the cross-limit speed V at a given distance, so it is assumed that a collision is unavoidable and an emergency call is transmitted. A timer is started at the same time. When the timer expires, it is checked whether a sensor that detects a collision of the motor vehicle, for example the airbag sensor, has been activated. If this is not the case, it is assumed that no collision has taken place and the emergency call is canceled.

Um auch in der Empfangsstation nicht sofort mit Eingang des Notrufes eine Alarmierung auszulösen, wird gemäß Fig. 5 auch in der Empfangsstation bei Eingang des Notrufs ein Timer gestartet, da der Notruf noch widerrufen werden kann. Die Laufzeit des Timers wird wiederum nur wenige Sekunden betragen. Ist bis zum Ablauf des Timers der Notruf widerrufen worden, so wird das Alarmierungsverfahren abgebrochen, ohne daß bereits eine Alarmierung stattgefunden hat. Wurde der Notruf bis zum Ablauf des Timers nicht widerrufen, so wird schließlich die Alarmierung ausgelöst. Durch diese Verfahrensweise wird das Personal in der Empfangsstation nicht ständig durch empfangene Notrufe in Alarmbereitschaft versetzt, die anschließend widerrufen werden. Andererseits ist durch die nur wenige Sekunden dauernde Verzögerung der Alarmierung kein nachteiliger Effekt zu erwarten.In order not even in the receiving station immediately upon receipt of the emergency call 5 is also triggered in the receiving station according to FIG when the emergency call arrives, a timer started because the emergency call is still can be revoked. The runtime of the timer is again only a few Seconds. If the emergency call is canceled by the end of the timer the alarm procedure is terminated without an alarm has already occurred. Was the emergency call by If the timer expires, the alarm will eventually be canceled triggered. Through this procedure, the staff in the receiving station not constantly on alert due to received emergency calls which are subsequently revoked. On the other hand, through the delay of the alarm lasting only a few seconds is not a disadvantage Expected effect.

Das erfindungsgemäße Notrufsystem wurde anhand eines Ausführungsbeispiels beschrieben. Da das Notrufsystem auch an sich bekannte Kraftfahrzeugkomponenten, wie beispielsweise ein Geschwindigkeits- und Abstandsmeßsystem, ein Navigationssystem und ein Mobiltelefon beinhaltet, ist eine Vielzahl von Ausführungsformen möglich. Beispielsweise kann zur Geschwindigkeits- und Abstandsmessung auch ein Infrarotsystem eingesetzt werden. Weiterhin ist kein komplettes Mobiltelefon erforderlich. Für das erfindungsgemäße Notrufsystem ist ein Sender ausreichend, so daß die Wähltastatur, das Mikrofon und der Lautsprecher des Mobiltelefons für das erfindungsgemäße Notrufsystem nicht erforderlich sind. Zur Bestimmung der Fahrzeugposition ist neben dem beschriebenen Navigationssystem beispielsweise auch ein System denkbar, bei dem die Position durch Baaken am Fahrzeugrand in das Kraftfahrzeug übermittelt wird.The emergency call system according to the invention was based on an embodiment described. Since the emergency call system also includes known motor vehicle components, such as a speed and distance measuring system, includes a navigation system and a mobile phone, a variety of embodiments are possible. For example Speed and distance measurement also used an infrared system become. Furthermore, a complete mobile phone is not required. For the emergency call system according to the invention is a transmitter sufficient so that the dial pad, the microphone and the speaker of the mobile phone for the emergency call system according to the invention is not required. For determination the vehicle position is next to the described navigation system For example, a system is also conceivable in which the position is determined by Baaken is transmitted to the vehicle in the vehicle edge.

Claims (18)

  1. Emergency call system for a motor vehicle, having a transmitter (3), provided in the motor vehicle, for automatically transmitting an emergency call to an external receiving station, and having at least one signal generator, the transmitter and the signal generator being connected to an arithmetic and logic unit (1) which activates the emergency call if there is an appropriate signal from the signal generator, characterized in that the emergency call system contains means for determining a probability level for an imminent accident using the signals from the signal generator, and the emergency call is activated if a limit value for the probability level is exceeded.
  2. Emergency call system according to Claim 1, characterized in that the emergency call system contains, as the signal generator, measuring means (2) connected to the arithmetic and logic unit for determining the relative speed and the distance of the motor vehicle in relation to another vehicle (10) or an obstacle, in which case the arithmetic and logic unit (1) can perform a comparison between the relative speed determined using the measuring means (2) and a maximum permissible value for the relative speed at the measured distance, and the emergency call can be activated if the maximum permissible relative speed for a given distance is exceeded.
  3. Emergency call system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that means connected to the arithmetic and logic unit for determining the vehicle position (4) are provided and the vehicle position can be transmitted to the receiving station with the emergency call.
  4. Emergency call system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the arithmetic and logic unit is connected to at least one sensor (6) for detecting an accident, and the emergency call system also contains a timer (5) which is connected to the arithmetic and logic unit (1) and is started when the emergency call is activated, and the emergency call can be automatically revoked when the timer (5) has run out if no signal signalling an accident has been transmitted to the arithmetic and logic unit (1) by the sensor (6) by the time the timer (5) has run out.
  5. Emergency call system according to Claim 4, characterized in that the sensor (6) for detecting an accident is an acceleration sensor, particularly for releasing an air bag, or a temperature sensor.
  6. Emergency call system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the arithmetic and logic unit is connected to seat-occupancy sensors, and the number of occupied motor vehicle seats can be transmitted with the emergency call.
  7. Emergency call system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the measuring means for determining the relative speed and the distance are based on the evaluation of a transmitted and received, reflected radar signal.
  8. Emergency call system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the transmitter is an integral part of a mobile communication device, particularly of a digital mobile radio system.
  9. Emergency call system according to Claim 8, characterized in that the mobile radio system is based on the GSM standard or on the UMTS standard.
  10. Emergency call system according to one of the preceding Claims 3 to 9, characterized in that the means for determining the position are a navigation system for the motor vehicle.
  11. Emergency call system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the position of the motor vehicle is determined using dead-reckoning navigation and/or GPS navigation.
  12. Method for automatically transmitting an emergency call from a motor vehicle to a receiving station using a transmitter (3), in which
    the distance and the relative speed of the motor vehicle in relation to another vehicle (10) or an obstacle are ascertained,
    the relative speed ascertained is compared with a defined, maximum permissible relative speed for the distance ascertained, and
    an emergency call is triggered if the particular relative speed of the motor vehicle exceeds the defined, maximum permissible relative speed.
  13. Method according to Claim 12, characterized in that, in addition, the position of the vehicle is determined and the position data is transmitted to the receiving station with the emergency call.
  14. Method according to Claim 14, according to the position of the vehicle is ascertained using dead-reckoning navigation and/or GPS navigation.
  15. Method according to one of the preceding Claims 12 to 14, characterized in that the collision between the motor vehicle and the other vehicle or obstacle is detected by means of a sensor (6), and the emergency call can be automatically revoked if no collision has been detected by the sensor within a predetermined time period after transmission of the emergency call.
  16. Method according to one of the preceding Claims 12 to 15, characterized in that the number of occupied seats in the motor vehicle is transmitted with the emergency call.
  17. Method according to one of the preceding Claims 12 to 16, characterized in that the relative speed and the distance of the motor vehicle are determined using a radar system.
  18. Method according to one of the preceding Claims 12 to 17, characterized in that the emergency call is made using a mobile communication device, in particular a digital mobile radio system.
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DE19922730A1 (en) 2000-11-23
DE50006457D1 (en) 2004-06-24
US6339370B1 (en) 2002-01-15
EP1054371B2 (en) 2007-03-21

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